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Meet Bryony Farmer
Bryony Farmer, who lives in the United Kingdom, is the Founder and Director of Precious Stars, an online business that carries reusable and eco-friendly menstrual products. At only 19 years old, Bryony leads her own company, advocates for sustainable alternatives to menstrual products and runs an active YouTube channel. On her channel, Bryony reviews menstrual cups (flexible silicone cups that fit inside the vagina during menstruation and catch menstrual fluid) and reusable pads, among other things.
Bryony has always been eco-conscious, which she says is thanks to her parents. She also “always knew” that she wanted to run a business and originally wanted to be an inventor. Bryony started her company four years ago. Her business has been so successful that she expanded production from her attic sewing room to an actual manufacturer.
Her early success is rooted in a lot of pain, however. When Bryony was 10 years old, after years of leading a normal childhood, she could barely get out of bed. Twenty-one blood tests and numerous operations later, Bryony was misdiagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS); she has since been properly diagnosed with Lyme disease. It was during this time that she came across a discussion of menstrual cups in a forum for girls with CFS. Bryony purchased her first cup and began making her own pads. She fell in love with reusable menstrual products and wanted to share her knowledge. During the most difficult time in her life, Bryony was able to find her purpose. She has also given back by collecting pads for girls in Africa so that they can attend school during their periods (and to help reduce the stigma associated with periods in developing countries). It is difficult enough just being 19, but this young entrepreneur never once let her sickness slow her down. This is why we decided to profile her for Faces of Change.
Passion
“Spreading awareness about reusable menstrual products because they are a great alternative to disposables. They are better for the environment, more comfortable, save you money and are free from the chemicals that a lot of disposables have. I wish someone had told me about them sooner—that’s why I like spreading awareness about them.”
I would also like to see more discussion about different body shapes—how penises and vaginas (vulvas) can all look very different but that this is normal.
Makes Her Happy
“When I was given a role as a soloist in an English Youth Ballet production. I’ve had such an uphill battle with my health that that was a big deal for me. It’s the highest role you can have as a youth dancer in the company.”
Likes
“Dancing, ice-skating, purple, cute shoes, pretty dresses and Pot Noodles (an instant noodle snack found in the United Kingdom).”
Dislikes
“Fish, pink, scary movies and pretty much any sport that involves being outside.”
Twitter, Facebook or Tumblr?
“Facebook. I barely know how to use Twitter and I haven’t attempted Tumblr.”
Stranded on a Desert Island
“I would bring the guy I have a crush on because if we’re stuck on an island, we might as well try and procreate and start a new tribe; Pride and Prejudice; and pasta—can’t live without that.”
Show Her the Money
“If I had a million dollars to change sex ed, I would educate teenagers on the risks of sex, both physical and emotional as well as focusing more on the pleasure side of things and how things like foreplay are important. I would also like to see more discussion about different body shapes—how penises and vaginas (vulvas) can all look very different but that this is normal.”
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